Persons with intellectual/developmental disabilities, COVID-19 and priority for vaccination
A group of Canadian researchers, including CIIC members Dr. Jennifer Baumbusch and Dr. Tim Stainton, has released recommendations developed as part of a report being prepared on the impact of COVID-19 on Persons with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities.
Recommendation #1: In recognition of the heightened susceptibility of persons with
intellectual/developmental disabilities to severe complications and death from the COVID-19
virus as well as the disproportionate negative consequences of COVID-related public health
measures on their mental health and well-being, the Federal Government, in conjunction with
provincial and local governments must prioritize persons of all ages with intellectual or
developmental disabilities and their caregivers (including personal assistants, family carers, and
persons working in disability related services) in the distribution of COVID-19 vaccinations.
Recommendation #2: In view of accessibility challenges for this high-risk population, any
information provided federally, provincially or locally about vaccinations should be shared with
the public in an inclusive and accessible manner using a variety of formats to include text, simple
infographics and short audio or video clips, and should also be shared with health care
professionals and community organizations to reach out to all individuals with
intellectual/developmental disabilities.
View the full statement released March 5, 2021 at this link: